Hines’ invitation is especially important, since he gave up his final season of college eligibility to enter the draft.

He isn’t the only state underclassman to earn a spot at the Combine. North Carolina linebacker Andre Smith, who missed most of last season with a knee injury, was also chosen to show off his running jumping and weight lifting skills for the NFL coaches, general managers and scouts in attendance.

Smith’s teammate M.J. Stewart is the only other Tar Heel to be selected. The All-ACC cornerback has been rising on most draft boards since a standout performance at the Senior Bowl all-star game.

In addition to the players from state schools, Fayetteville native Harold Landry, a defensive end from Boston College, and Raleigh’s Braxton Berrios, a wide receiver from Miami were among the others receiving invitations.

The only major omission among players with state ties is Wake Forest’s Cam Serigne, the Deacons’ all-time leader in catches and receiving yards among tight ends.

The Combine runs from Feb. 27 through March 5, with running backs, offensive linemen, kickers and special team players scheduled to work out on Friday, March 1; Quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends on Saturday, March 2; Defensive linemen and linebackers on Sunday, March 3; And defensive backs on Monday, March 4.

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